The Stonehouse-based Sunflowers Suicide Support charity received a boost on Friday from a Gloucestershire Masonic Lodge.
The Round Table Lodge no 9017, which boasts 43 members and meets at the Masonic Hall in Wotton-under-Edge, handed over a cheque for £1,000 to Abbie Warren, founder of Sunflowers.
“Because we are a local charity donations like this mean we can keep going,” said Abbie who established the charity in 2016 in memory of her brother Pete Morris who died by suicide.
Sunflowers helps families affected by bereavement by suicide and offer practical and professional support so they do not feel overwhelmed or alone.
“This year has been incredibly tough – we’ve seen an increase in the number of people accessing the service. During the pandemic the trauma attached to loss is more complex and difficult,” she added.
Sunflowers also raise awareness around mental health and suicide both on social media and by networking locally and nationally, delivering training to the wider community and presentations sharing their story.
“We highlight that it is OK to not be ‘OK’ and the importance of talking and of course listening. We feel that everyone can play a small part in connecting with and helping others to feel less alone,” said Abbie.
For more information visit: HOME (sunflowerssuicidesupport.org.uk)
